MARYSVILLE — Grace Academy took it to Highland Christian early on in Northwest 1B boys basketball action.

The Eagles, who won 42-24, forced the Knights to play catch up, Jan. 4 at the Marysville Boys and Girls Club. by holding them scoreless in the first quarter.

“At times our defense is our best quality,” said Grace Academy coach Scott Carlin. “And it was tonight. We were working hard together to play physical defense.”

The Eagles pressured fullcourt nearly the entire game, which built a 9-0 first quarter advantage to a 22-10 halftime lead.

The pressure resulted in a number of Highland turnovers and fastbreak points for Grace, many of which came from guard Jordan Rock, who scored 14 points and had eight steals.

“He’s just quick and can go all night,” said Carlin about Rock. “He sneaks around guys and can use his length to get to the ball and get it loose.”

The quick pace continued for Grace, which fits right into junior James Eldridge’s style of play, who also scored 14 points with a number of lay-ins.

“James had a standout effort tonight,” said Carlin. “We’re working with him to build an all-around game, but he sure can finish around the basket.”

The Eagles’ defense also did well to focus on Highland’s main option, senior Calvin Wold, who finished with 19 points, 18 rebounds and three steals.

With only one senior, Carlin is excited about his team’s prospects this season and the next couple of years.

He also mentioned Scott Lee as breaking out.

“Scott is starting to come out of his shell, scoring a couple of baskets in the first quarter,” said Carlin of Lee, who finished with four points.

Grace plays host to Tulalip Heritage at 8 p.m., Jan 14.